-
- To save this word, you'll need to log in.
limbic system
noun
: a group of subcortical structures (such as the hypothalamus, the hippocampus, and the amygdala) of the brain that are concerned especially with emotion and motivation
Examples of limbic system in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
When teams operate in high-pressure environments with unclear expectations or unresolved tensions, the brain’s limbic system activates the fight-or-flight response.
—
Scott Hutcheson, Forbes, 9 Jan. 2025
During a migraine attack, the hypothalamus is thought to lose control over a collection of structures in the brain called the limbic system, which affects how a person responds to pain.
—
Helen Thomson, WIRED, 25 Sep. 2024
Partly due to our evolutionary survival, and also due to our emotional limbic system, humans have often used storytelling as a cornerstone of belonging and inclusion.
—
Julie Kratz, Forbes, 20 Oct. 2024
Emotion state: This one is part of the limbic system, where the body feels the effects of increasing emotions and leans on memories for information about the current experience.
—
Beth Ann Mayer, Parents, 28 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for limbic system ![](/dist-cross-dungarees/2025-02-12--19-15-30-vga08/images/svg/redesign/arrow-right-exemplar.svg)
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Word History
First Known Use
1952, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near limbic system
Cite this Entry
“Limbic system.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/limbic%20system. Accessed 13 Feb. 2025.
Medical Definition
limbic system
noun
: a group of subcortical structures (as the hypothalamus, the hippocampus, and the amygdala) of the brain that are concerned especially with emotion and motivation
More from Merriam-Webster on limbic system
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about limbic system
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share